Williams eyeing Raikkonen and Sutil for 2012?

The Williams F1 outfit looks to be eyeing a replacement for Rubens Barrichello, after both Kimi Raikkonen and Adrian Sutil were seen visiting the Grove HQ in early-September.

The team confirmed the visits took place, but refused to make any further comment.
A major management reshuffle is underway for the beginning of the 2012 season, a result of their worst ever start to a season since the team joined the sport in 1978.

Whilst the drivers might not be the biggest factor to their poor results, having bagged just five points, 24 less than eighth placed Toro Rosso, the team are keen on cutting costs.

Pastor Maldonado is seen as a safe bet for 2012, given his personal sponsor, PDVSA, brings with it many millions (upwards of £25m) in return for running the Venezuelan. Rubens Barrichello however doesn't bring any substantial sponsorship and what he does, doesn't cover his salary.

Kimi Raikkonen, who left F1 in 2009 after winning the title in 2007 with Ferrari, would be seen as a risky replacement, given he hasn't raced in the top-tier of motorsport for almost two years. Nor would he want to pay Williams for the priviledge.